bullshit around

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bullshit around" is not standard in written English, but it can be understood in informal contexts.
It is typically used to describe wasting time or engaging in trivial or nonsensical activities instead of being productive. Example: "Stop bullshitting around and get to the point of the meeting."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

We don't like to bullshit around, or waste time.

The Guardian - Music

"But there was always a lot of bullshit around.

The Guardian

"There's a sort of Roundhead bullshit around culture: the more serious and difficult it is, the more it hurts you and your audience, the more worthwhile it is.

The Guardian

Last month Armstrong spoke publicly for the first time since his interview with Winfrey, attacking what he called the "petty bullshit" around the doping scandal.

The Guardian - Sport

It would be amazing to be able to relish the moment and wallow in some exciting new technology and upcoming entertainment, but unfortunately it's all coming loaded with all this woolly, drab bullshit around it.

The Guardian - Tech

"I think that many music blogs instead of talking about music, they talk about gossip and bullshit around it".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

The NYPD has been mandated for almost a decade to track crime in all parks one acre or greater via Local Law 114, which passed in 2005, but they've bullshitted around, pointing to a clause in the bill that made that mandate "subject to the availability of resources and the introduction of necessary technology".

Vice

Plot-wise, The Great Gatsby like so much realist narrative fiction is easily boiled down to a handful of bullshit tacked around some semblance of Character Motivations.

Vice

Plot-wise, The Great Gatsby like so much realist narrative fiction is easily boiled down to a handful of bullshit tacked around some semblance of Character Motivations.

Vice

With all the hyper-partisan bullshit flying around these days, it's hard to remember that at one time these theories were popular because they spoke directly to your inner child not your inner asshole.

Vice

With all the hyperpartisan bullshit flying around these days, it's hard to remember that at one time these theories were popular because they spoke directly to your inner child, not your inner asshole.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bullshit around", be mindful of your audience, as it is considered informal and may not be appropriate in all contexts. Consider "fool around" or "waste time" as alternatives.

Common error

Avoid using "bullshit around" in formal writing or professional presentations. Opt for more professional terms such as "evade the issue", "stall for time", or "prevaricate" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bullshit around" functions as a phrasal verb, typically used in informal speech to describe avoiding work, being insincere, or wasting time. As shown in Ludwig, it often implies a lack of seriousness or directness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bullshit around" is an informal phrasal verb used to describe wasting time, being insincere, or avoiding serious topics. While Ludwig AI flags it as acceptable, it's crucial to consider your audience as it is considered vulgar. Opt for alternatives like "fool around" or "waste time" in formal settings. The phrase is primarily used in news and media contexts, according to Ludwig examples.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fool around

Implies playful and unserious behavior, often lacking a specific intent to deceive or mislead.

mess around

Suggests casual and unfocused activity, sometimes with a hint of potential mischief.

screw around

Similar to "mess around", but with a stronger implication of wasting time and being unproductive.

waste time

Focuses solely on the unproductive aspect, without necessarily implying deception or insincerity.

dilly-dally

Implies dawdling or delaying progress, often in a whimsical or indecisive manner.

loaf around

Suggests idleness and inactivity, often associated with relaxation or lack of motivation.

goof off

Implies playful and silly behavior that is inappropriate for the situation.

shirk responsibilities

Specifically refers to avoiding duties or obligations, implying a lack of accountability.

engage in idle chatter

Highlights the aspect of pointless conversation, often lacking substance or purpose.

equivocate

To use ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing to a particular point of view.

FAQs

What does "bullshit around" mean?

The phrase "bullshit around" means to waste time, avoid serious topics, or engage in insincere or misleading behavior.

Is "bullshit around" considered vulgar?

Yes, "bullshit around" is considered vulgar and should be used with caution, especially in formal or professional settings. Consider alternatives such as "fool around" or "waste time".

How can I use "bullshit around" in a sentence?

You might say, "We don't like to bullshit around, or waste time," indicating a preference for directness and efficiency.

What are some less offensive ways to say "bullshit around"?

Alternatives include "mess around", "fool around", or "waste time". The best choice depends on the specific context.